In a statement Tuesday, the HRVCB said it will deputize various government agencies to help fulfill its mandates. It also plans to take records and statements from both victims and alleged perpetrators of human rights violations to give proper reparations to those who need them.
“There will be no historical amnesia. The documentation gathered will also be used to inform present and future generations for them to remain vigilant to defend the freedoms and rights we have gained towards the enjoyment of all human rights by all,” HRVCB said.
Records that will be collected from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the now-defunct Philippine Constabulary will be used to document the “massive and systematic violations of human rights” during Martial Law.
Though it admitted the enormity of its task, the group remains confident that all human rights violations victims (HRVVs) will be given due reparations. It also vowed to involve them and other stakeholders in drafting the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10368.
“We need to join hands for truth and justice towards the healing of our nation and move forward and say, “Never again to martial law!” it declared.
Approved in February 2013, RA 10368 or the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013 aims to give HRVVs monetary and non-monetary reparations, including proper recognition for the indignities they suffered during the Martial Law period.
Before they could even create their work plan, the HRVCB was hit with criticisms regarding the appointment its chairman, retired Chief Superintendent Lina Sarmiento.
President Benigno Aquino III defended his appointment, saying Sarmiento has the for the position.
The group paid respects to HRVVs at the Bantayog ng Bayani on Tuesday, during the 28th anniversary of the historic EDSA People Power Revolution. — Rie Takumi/KBK, GMA News
